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When you live in an area that experiences strong winds from time to time, choosing trees for your yard becomes more than simply considering height, girth and shade. Limb strength and strong root systems are crucial to avoid property damage, or worse, from falling trees during high winds. Luckily, Shumard oak (Quercus shumardii), native to the Eastern U.S., has survived some of the most destructive winds on the planet -- from hurricanes. Shumard oak grows best in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 5 through 9.

Determining Wind Resistance

At the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, a study on the effects of hurricanes on urban trees charted the level of damage trees suffered in storms with winds ranging from 85 to 165 mph. Branch loss and whether the tree fell, leaned or stayed upright in the storms helped scientists determine which tree species are most wind resistant. Larger trees, in general, suffered more wind damage than smaller trees. The strongest tornadoes can produce winds in excess of 300 mph. Trees rarely survive such powerful storms.

Standing Up to Wind

The University of Florida study rated Shumard oak at medium-high wind resistance. Live oak (Quercus virginiana), which grows in USDA zones 7 through 10, is one of only four oak species with higher wind resistance ratings. In areas that do not experience hurricane-force winds, Shumard oaks can be a stable addition to the yard as long as they are properly cared for. Oaks have a strong root system to help hold them in the ground when winds batter the canopy.

Factors to Consider

Simply measuring the speed of winds blasting through the yard is not enough to determine the resistance of any tree species. The condition of the soil, overall health of the tree, the tree’s age and size, plus the amount of rain and the forward speed of the storm itself also contribute to the tree’s ability to withstand high winds. Older trees and trees suffering from disease or damage may be less reliable and should be checked by an arborist for safety's sake. The Urban Forest Ecosystems Institute in California rates the Shumard oak’s branch strength as strong.

Basic Culture

Shumard oaks can live more than 150 years and grow 65 feet tall. The stately trees provide abundant shade in summer and the deeply lobed leaves put on a spectacular show when they change color in fall. Shumard oaks grow well in wet to dry soil in full sun to partial shade. They tolerate clay, loamy or sandy soil with a pH level ranging from highly acidic to slightly alkaline. Proper growing conditions keep the tree healthy and protect its natural ability to resist wind damage.

About the Author

Audrey Lynn has been a journalist and writer since 1974. She edited a weekly home-and-garden tabloid for her hometown newspaper and has regularly contributed to weekly and daily newspapers, as well as "Law and Order" magazine. A Hambidge Fellow, Lynn studied English at Columbus State University.